Old English Sheepdogs are best known for their striking good looks and their comic antics. They are the clowns of the dog world.

For that reason, these lovable furballs have been featured in many movies such as the Shaggy DA, the Shaggy Dog, the Little Mermaid, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Peter Pan, Please Don’t Eat the Daisies, and many more. But life is not exactly like the movies and potential owners need to determine if they really can handle a large, rambunctious dog 24/7 for many years.

OES typically range in weight between 65 and 85 pounds. Our rescue group has had some OES as small as 50 pounds and some as heavy as 110 pounds. The smaller dogs are generally full grown and an appropriate weight for their stature. The heavier dogs, oftentimes referred to as “fluffy,” typically respond well to changes in their exercise and food regimens to lose weight.

OES are herding dogs – well known for an ability to control the movement of other animals. At home, this means that if a family member heads to another room, the OES is likely to follow to make sure that the family member doesn’t stray.

To an OES, family members are its sheep. An OES is happiest when he or she has rounded up all of his sheep, and has herded them together into a small area where he or she can keep an eye on the entire flock.

This characteristic of the breed might drive some people crazy. OES fanciers find it endearing. An OES is frequently underfoot.

Old English Sheepdogs are strong-willed and very smart. Don’t let their cute faces and irresistible head tilts catch you off guard. OES are problem solvers extraordinaire and will keep you on your toes.

This overview would not be complete without a brief discussion of grooming. Old English Sheepdogs have some special grooming requirements. The OES that are seen parading around show rings are in full coat. Most families who own OES as pets, however, do not keep them in full coat. Instead, it is more manageable and practical for them to keep the fur cut to a shorter length. Professional grooming is very expensive, and many owners learn how to do their own grooming.

We invite you to attend some of our events and to spend time with OES prior to adopting. This will give you a chance to evaluate whether this breed is the right fit for you.

For information about selecting the dog breed that is best suited your personality and lifestyle, visit the American Kennel Club’s website at: http://www.akc.org/